On May 25, 2021, the first session of the "Association and Chamber of Commerce Align with the Party: Re-launching from the Stone Arch District" thematic promotion and education series of reports, organized by the Shanghai Municipal Government Industry Association Committee, was successfully held at the Shanghai International Procurement Exhibition Center.

The presentation will feature members of the "Ningyun" outreach team from the municipal-level government and industry association chambers of commerce, along with Chen Xian, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Shanghai Exhibition Industry Association, presenting on the topic of "Reviewing Exhibition History and Strengthening Our Path." The presentation will be attended by Zhu Xiang, Secretary of the Party Committee of the municipal-level government and industry association, as well as over 180 party members and representatives from relevant provincial offices in Shanghai and various industry associations.

During the presentation, Secretary Chen Jian advanced outlined the historical development of China's exhibition and convention industry, dividing it into two distinct periods: "From the founding of the People's Republic of China to the pre-reform and opening-up era" and "From the reform and opening-up era to the present." He utilized the policies and directives of the Party and the State across these periods, providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the industry's evolution. The first period highlighted the "Ten Firsts" and "Four Major Events" to illustrate the characteristics of exhibitions before the reform and opening-up era. The second period categorized the industry's development after the reform and opening-up into five stages: "Initial Stage, Growth, Maturity, Expansion, and the New Era," providing a detailed and accessible account of the industry's progression from its origins to its current state, including its transformation from a nascent sector to a powerful and dynamic force.

Finally, Secretary Chen Jianxin, drawing upon his lifelong experience in the exhibition and convention industry, summarized three key lessons and insights regarding the development of China's exhibition industry since its founding: 1. It is essential to correctly understand the relationship between the two historical periods: before and after the Reform and Opening-up. Without the decisive decision and unwavering commitment of our Party to implement and advance Reform and Opening-up, China's exhibition industry would not have achieved its current progress and global standing. Furthermore, it is important to recognize that the various explorations undertaken by China's exhibition industry before the Reform and Opening-up period laid a crucial foundation of ideas, resources, and systems for subsequent practice. 2. It is essential to firmly adhere to the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics. The future development of China's exhibition industry must continue to emphasize innovative thinking, practical action, and adaptation to the times. 3. It is essential to align with the prevailing global trends. In the coming period, we will face a more complex and dynamic external environment. The more challenges we encounter, the more important it is to follow the historical logic of progress, adapt to the trends of development, and respond to the expectations of the people. In this more open environment, we can achieve higher-quality development.